7th Annual Pull for a Kid Tug O'War

As a lifelong athlete, Brent Nichols appreciates the immense value a group of strong individuals coming together for a common purpose. But in the annual Pull for a Kid Tug O’ War, "victory” results not only in bragging rights toward athletic prowess, but even more importantly, directly helping local Brunswick kids in need.

“It’s truly remarkable what a dedicated group of individuals supported by a caring and generous community can accomplish,” Nichols states. He and his crew are actively recruiting event sponsors and five-member pull teams. Team divisions include high school, women, and men. Even novices can participate and have fun. “This year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest yet. We will cap the total teams at 21 this year. It’s going to be an incredibly fun day for the folks on the teams, as well as family and friends that come to cheer them on,” added Nichols. There's complimentary hot cocoa and chili being served and an after-party with music by Michael Hulett at Indigo Coastal Shanty too!

Since 2009, Nichols and the volunteers with the nonprofit tax exempt organization Pull For A Kid, Inc. have organized the annual Tug of War. One hundred percent of the donations raised are used to send local children to summer day camp, as well as provide additional support throughout the year. Nichols notes, “It costs $400+ per child to attend camp for the entire summer. We also provide for the children all year long with item-specific donations such as holiday meals and Christmas gifts. These are usually donated by individuals or clubs, and I can deliver them to a needy family on the same day.”

Prior year efforts were so successful that more than 2 dozen children were able to enjoy their summer in a safe, structured and fun environment. In 2014 the program was expanded such that some children attended summer activities at Howard Coffin pool, including the cost of swim lessons. “This is not just a healthy opportunity for the kids,” Nichols said. “This is peace-of-mind for the mothers as well. These are hand-picked children that are from working families, make passing grades and are well behaved. So often, the well behaved and academically achieving children slip through the cracks.”

When asked why the Tug of War has such appeal, Nichols replied, “The actual Tug of War event only brings in a portion of the donations, with the majority of the funds contributed by benevolent sponsors. However, the event is literally an experiential way to ‘pull for a kid.’ Participants can feel the community and hear about their contribution towards building stronger adults. We don't carry these children into adulthood. We offer to help pull taut the rope in the ‘right’ direction, assisting the building of healthy adults.”

For more event information, contact Brent Nichols at riverwolfchief@gmail.com or call 912.266.5688. Cost to enter a 5 person team is $100. Donations outside of entering a team are also greatly appreciated.